Navigating Compliance in Unclaimed Property: A Discussion with State VCP and VDA Officials

Regina Mitchell serves as the Deputy Secretary of State, where she directs the administration of the State’s Voluntary Disclosure Agreement (VDA) program, which is designed to be a business friendly, efficient and holder-driven process for unclaimed property-related settlements. Additionally, within the Department of State, she oversees and provides support and guidance to the Division of Small Business, the International Development program, and the Office of the State Bank Commissioner. 

Formerly, Regina served as the Director of the Delaware Division of Small Business, where she worked to make Delaware a better place for small businesses to start, expand, and thrive. She has been with the State of Delaware for over nine years, including several roles in the Division of Small Business and the Office of Management and Budget. Regina holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and communication from La Salle University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Pennsylvania. 

Gary Qualset is presently the Project Director at the California State Controller’s Office (SCO) overseeing implementation of the California Voluntary Compliance Program for the Unclaimed Property Division within the SCO.  Gary previously served as the Division Chief of the Unclaimed Property Division and as an audit advisor at the SCO for the past 14 years. Gary has been in state service for over 36 years working in a variety of positions as an accountant, auditor, manager, division chief, deputy director, and advisor to the elected chairperson of the Board of Equalization – a tax appeals agency. His experience includes stints at a number of agencies including the California Lottery, Department of Corporations, Department of Consumer Affairs, California Gambling Control Commission, Medical Board of California and Board of Equalization. Gary is a certified public accountant with experience in accounting, audit, tax, and consulting and graduated from California State University, Sacramento with a degree in accounting.  Prior to working within California’s Unclaimed Property Division, Gary helped many people file claims and become reunited with their unclaimed property.